“Creaking “ truss rod nut

[Rogerblair]

I have a Gibson J45 whose truss rod emits a scary creaking sound when I adjust it. It turns ok (a little harder than normal), but the sound is really weird.

I’m wondering if I can simply remove the nut (it’s at the headstock under a plastic cover for those who are not familiar with J45s), and perhaps coat the interfacing surface with some candle wax or bar soap. Does this sound like a viable fix to the issue?

Thanks in advance,
Roger

[John Arnold]

I loosen or remove the nut and apply a very small amount of machine oil, using a pinpoint oiler.

[redir]

Squeaky wheel gets the grease. I use bike chain lube since I have it around. You can apply it with a toothpick too.

[Fathand]

Sounds like the threads are seizing together, brass nut and steel rod? Dissimilar metals welding themselves together? A drop of lithium, wheel bearing grease or antisieze compound. I wouldn't suggest WD-40 or other penetrating compounds after the threads are apart.

[John Arnold]

The whole point in using dissimilar metals is to avoid seizing (welding). The brass nut Gibson uses is not prone to seizing, but the threads on the steel rod can corrode.

[Rogerblair]

Fixed!! A little candle wax on the threads and face of the nut did the trick. 15 minute fix. Thanks for everyone’s input.
Rb

[phavriluk]

Mechanics/machinists often use 'Never Sieze'' to prevents fasteners from corroding together.